Sacramento marine recruit dies during strength test

SAN DIEGO - A Sacramento marine recruit died on Friday, June 29 while performing an initial strength test at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MRCD) in San Diego.

According to the MRCD public affairs office, 22-year-old Darnell McCowan III was rushed to Scripps Mercy Hospital after collapsing following the running portion of the test, but personnel were unable to revive the recruit.

The initial strength test is a modified version of the Marine Corps physical fitness test that all recruits must pass before beginning their recruit training. The examination includes a 1.5 mile run and completion of at least three pull-ups and 44 crunches.

McCowan, a former Specialist in the Army Reserves, joined the Delayed Entry Programs via transfer as a Private First Class on June 18, 2012. He arrived in San Diego on June 19 to begin his recruit training, according to MRCD public affairs.

A cause of death has yet to be determined and the incident is under investigation.